Modern Fireplace Build-Outs with Decorative Wall Panels

Jul 24

For decades, traditional fireplace designs have graced homes with timeless beauty. From white-painted shiplap walls to natural stone cladding and smooth drywall with custom paint, these classic solutions continue to offer warmth, simplicity, and elegance. However, if you’re looking to make a bolder statement or bring a touch of modern sophistication into your living room, there’s a new category of materials that is transforming how fireplace walls are designed—decorative architectural panels.

Cartoonish 1980s Living Room with Traditional Fireplace — *A humorous tribute to the past, this caricature illustration captures a classic 1980s interior with stone fireplace, dark wood paneling, and two elderly characters enjoying the old-school charm.*

Moving Beyond the Traditional: A Contemporary Alternative

While shiplap, stone, and painted drywall will always have their place, today’s homeowners are increasingly embracing textured panels for fireplace build-outs. These panels offer visual depth, character, and customization options that simply can’t be achieved with flat materials.

Minimalist Fireplace Wall with Subtle Vertical Lines — *An elegant and understated fireplace wall design using narrow white ridge panels. The built-in firebox adds warmth without overwhelming the clean, open layout.*

What Makes These Panels So Special?

The key lies in their profiles, finishes, and adaptability. These wall panels are crafted with precision, offering a 3D effect that adds rhythm and movement to the wall. They can mimic the warmth of natural wood or be finished in any paint color imaginable—perfectly matching your interior palette.

Common Panel Profiles for Fireplace Walls

Here are some of the most popular panel styles we use in modern fireplace designs:

Slatted Panels: Vertical or horizontal wooden slats that bring a sleek, linear look
Wave Panels: Flowing, organic shapes that add movement and softness
Ridge Panels: Repetitive textures with narrow raised lines for subtle drama
Zigzag Panels: Angular, geometric surfaces ideal for statement designs
Flat Panels: Smooth MDF or veneered surfaces painted in bold or neutral tones

Bold Black Modern Fireplace Wall with TV — *A dramatic take on contemporary design, this fireplace wall uses black vertical panels to create contrast and depth. The electric fireplace and mounted TV make it a functional centerpiece.*

Finish Options: From Natural Wood to Painted Elegance

Our fireplace build-outs can be finished in a wide range of textures and colors. Clients can choose from:

Wood Veneers: Oak, walnut, poplar, and more for a natural, luxurious look
Painted Finishes: From matte black to soft white or even bold navy, we offer almost any custom color
Mixed Materials: Combine natural wood and painted MDF for a layered, modern aesthetic

Each finish brings a different mood to the space—whether you’re aiming for cozy rustic, elegant minimalism, or bold modern.

Two-Tone Fireplace Build-Out with Wood Slats — *Combining dark matte surfaces with natural wood slats, this media wall offers a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. A wide fireplace and recessed TV enhance the luxurious atmosphere.*

How Much Does It Cost?

This type of fireplace build-out is considered a mid-range to high-end solution in terms of pricing. It’s typically more expensive than painted drywall or shiplap but often significantly more affordable than full stone cladding.

Starting Price: $5,500+
Includes: Decorative panel materials, fireplace framing and installation, paint, and finishing
Custom Add-ons: Floating shelves, cabinetry, built-in lighting, and TV mounting

We encourage you to explore more in our blog post How Much Does a Media Wall with Fireplace Cost in 2026 and browse our full Fireplace Packages for pricing examples.

White Ridge Panel Fireplace Wall with Built-ins — *This sleek fireplace build-out features clean vertical ridge panels in white, paired with light oak open shelves and lower cabinets. A perfect blend of modern minimalism and natural warmth.*

Design Variations: Customization is Key

One of the greatest benefits of panel-clad fireplace build-outs is the ability to customize:

Full height panel coverage or half-height combinations
Contrast designs: Wood-paneled top with painted flat base
Framed panel sections for a refined, furniture-like feel
Floating shelves or niches integrated with the panel layout

The design can be minimal or bold, depending on the space and your personal style.

Natural Wood Slats Fireplace Feature Wall — *Warm and inviting, this build-out uses natural vertical wood slats to create texture and rhythm. The floating mantel and linear fireplace complete the stylish composition.*

Interested in a Modern Fireplace Build-Out?

We invite you to take a look at our completed Fireplace & Media Wall Projects for inspiration. Each project is crafted by professionals with attention to detail, layout, and lasting beauty.

Our team is ready to help you bring your vision to life—whether it’s a sleek modern fireplace or a combination feature wall. Visit our Contact Page and request a free estimate today.

Why Choose Avileve

Avileve is a trusted name in interior feature wall design. With teams based in Denver, Orlando, and Chicago, we specialize in building: